The Roadmasters' guidon was cased in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Joint Base Balad, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom where they will be responsible for most of the theater's movement control operations.

"Today the colors serve as a binding symbol of continuity and a point of inspiration for the future," the ceremony's announcer said.

The unit's Soldiers conducted multiple exercises and trained on seven different movement control software systems in preparation for deployment.

In addition to training for their deployment mission, the 49th was also responsible for supporting Fort Hood units' movement and distribution needs while restructuring from a Movement Control Battalion to a Multi-Functional Logistics Battalion and back to an MCB.

"They did all this in true Wagonmaster fashion," said Phelps, "They just strapped on their boots tight, fastened their chin straps, and got about the work we put in front of them,"

This is the third time that the Roadmasters have conducted this mission in Iraq.

"We return to Iraq knowing that the soldiers in this headquarters will control what is arguably the most complex military transportation network in history," said Lt. Col. Peter Haas, commander, 49th Trans. Bn., 15th SB, 13th ESC.

But this time things are different, as Haas anticipates that the 49th will be primarily responsible for the upcoming force reposturing plan in Iraq.

"We know you'll make history ... this rotation will see the greatest change ever seen in that theater," Phelps said.

"Massive movements of soldiers, massive movements of equipment, millions of miles driven by ground transportation, dozens of ships, and hundreds of planes and countless soldiers and missions [are] all relying on the 49th."

"I do not believe that it is coincidence that the 49th was responsible for managing the surge in 2006-2007 and will now oversee its reciprocal," Haas explained.

The 49th rear detachment and Family Readiness Groups are prepared to take care of the Soldiers' families while deployed, Phelps and Haas agreed.

"I owe a debt of gratitude to all of our Soldiers' families ... for your support and allowing your loved ones to serve," Haas said.

Haas said that he is confident that the 49th will do an even better job than its previous deployment.

"Our Soldiers have worked hard, they are confident, competent and eager to get on with this mission!" he exclaimed.